Page 97 of Protecting Hailey

Fitz’s shoulders slumped, and he shook his finger at me. “You had me going, you know that.”

I shrugged. “I wasn’t trying to tease you. I just think it’s an important cause and I want to do whatever I can to help.”

“In that case,” said Kendra. “How do you feel about creating a promotional video with the two of us singing the song that can be shared on social media? I think we’d raise more awareness that way.”

“I’m game. Whatever you think will work. Oh, and I’m sort of short a social media manager right now, so let’s go with your guy.”

Kendra arched her eyebrow. “Definitely.”

“Should we work on the video today since I’m here?”

“No. We’re going to need to figure out where to shoot it and what to wear. We can’t just shoot it now.”

“Yes, of course, you’re right. I suck at the actual performance stuff. Just let Sam or Frankie know and I’ll be there. I’ll head out then. It was great seeing you both.” I shook both their hands and turned to leave.

Just before I opened the door, Fitz called out. “Hey, Hailey.”

I looked over my shoulder. “Mmm?”

“There was one more thing I wanted to talk to you about.”

“Shoot.”

“Have you ever thought about writing for other artists?”

“Oh, I don’t think so. I hardly have the time to write, create, and perform my stuff. Besides, I don’t think other artists would be interested in my work.”

He pursed his lips. “I beg to differ. I know a couple of artists and producers who would love to work with you in the studio right now.” He smiled. “And you won’t have to perform.”

My lips twitched. “That is tempting.”

He interlaced his hands over his belly. “Think about it. If you ever wish to stop touring and start writing full time, I’ve got enough artists to keep you busy.”

I tilted my head and smiled, thinking that he was teasing me. But his face remained unchanged.

“I’ll think about it,” I said and waved goodbye.

I closed the door behind me and spotted Christian standing with his hands clasped behind his back, looking out the window.

“See any crazy fans looking to stab me in the back?”

He shook his head. “Don’t even joke about that. It makes my blood boil to think about it.”

He held my hand as we exited the building. “Hailey, I have some things to take care of in town. I’m sending a bodyguard I’ve vetted to the house to stay with you. I won’t be there for more than a couple of hours.”

Starting the car, he waited for my reply. “Sure. That’s fine with me.” I said. “I think my mom’s coming by soon. She mentioned going over some financial stuff with me.”

When we arrived at my house, another car was already waiting there for us. The bodyguard stepped out of the vehicle. He wore blue jeans and a black T-shirt. He didn’t look like Christian and his friends, instead was a lot smaller but wiry. I bet he was fast, though.

He walked up to Christian and shook his hand. “Dean, this is Hailey. Hailey, Dean.”

We shook hands, and I left Christian alone to give Dean the rundown of the house and his duties.

Stepping inside, I inhaled deeply and looked around. It felt like forever since I laid down on my couch and did nothing for a while. I crawled over to the gray couch, grabbed a blanket on my way, and pulled it up to my chin.

I closed my eyes and let sleep take over.

It felt like only minutes had gone by when a door slammed and woke me up. I groaned and squinted towards the foyer.

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